Subject Matter Expert - Public Assistance

508 Witt O'Brien's Payroll Management LLC; Houston (TX); Remote; USD 83,000 - 138,000; Part time

Job summary

Ambipar invites qualified professionals to join as Public Assistance Expert, delivering technical assistance on FEMA-regulated PA programs. The role emphasizes coordination with FEMA and state agencies, site visits, and complex analysis of applications to ensure compliance.

It requires a strong engineering/analytic background and experience with disaster recovery operations. The role is remote/on-call, with potential deployment across states and flexible hours based on project needs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in business or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience as a FEMA, State or Local Public Assistance Officer.
• Relevant professional certification (P.E., CFM, AIA, PCM, PMP).
• Completion of FEMA/EMI Advanced Professional Series or Professional Development Series.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert technical assistance on recovery planning and PA-related policies and procedures.
• Coordinate with FEMA and State Agencies on environmental issues and guidance.
• Perform high-difficulty technical work requiring practical judgment in applying engineering techniques.
• Analyze project applications, supporting documentation, and inspection reports for compliance.

Skills

Public Assistance

FEMA regulations

Program oversight

Policy analysis

Client interaction

Education

Bachelor's degree in business or related field

Professional certifications (P.E., CFM, AIA, PCM, PMP)

FEMA EMI series training

Tools

MS Word

MS Excel

PowerPoint

Adobe Acrobat Pro

Job description

Are you looking for an opportunity to truly make a difference? Do you want to join a collaborative, mission-driven team that protects the planet, strengthens communities, and supports businesses when they need it most? Are you seeking a place where your work contributes directly to an organization known for excellence in environmental services, crisis management, and emergency response? If your answer is “yes,” then you belong at Ambipar. We are currently recruiting for an Public Assistance Expert. The key responsibility of the role will be to provide technical assistance to the client in relation to the FEMA regulations associated with the Public Assistance program.

Position Details

Reports to: Project Manager Location: Remote Position Type: On-Call / Part time Compensation: Commensurate with experience

Essential Job Functions

Establish partnerships with FEMA, State, and applicant. Provide program oversight and expert technical assistance on recovery planning and community development related policies, principles, and procedures. Conduct site visits representing the state/local agency or as a member of a negotiation team. Coordinate with FEMA and State Environmental agencies on all environmental issues and historic guidance. Independently perform technical work of a high degree of difficulty requiring the exercise of originality, initiative, and practical judgment in the application and adaptation of standardized engineering techniques and methods. Perform technical services functions and provides advice in the management of long‑term community recovery components such as; disaster damage and impact assessments teams, and long‑term community recovery operations within the disaster field offices, regional offices and public assistance closeout offices. Analyze and evaluates selected project applications, supporting documentation, and federal agency inspection reports for accuracy and compliance with applicable FEMA policies and procedures.

Minimum Job Requirements

Bachelor's degree in business or a related field. 10+ years of experience as a FEMA, State or Local Public Assistance Officer Relevant professional certification (i.e., P.E., CFM, AIA, PCM, PMP) Completion of FEMA/EMI Advanced Professional Series or Professional Development Series, IC Staff series Knowledge of Federal and State Recovery Programs and Initiatives, Public Assistance and its implementing regulations Knowledge and experience with engineering principles and practices as they relate to PA programs Knowledge and skill in applying analytical and evaluative techniques to the identification, consideration, and resolution of a wide variety of grants administration issues and problems Significant experience addressing strategic issues in disaster recovery operations including issues that have complex political and programmatic elements Excellent oral and written communication skills Ability to prioritize and handle multiple projects in a changing work environment Ability to work independently and/or on a team Strong organizational skills Exceptional research skills Comfortable interacting with Clients and Client Stakeholders- Proficient computer skills: (including MS Word, MS Excel, PowerPoint; Adobe Acrobat Professional)

Preferred Job Requirements

Post graduate degree in homeland security, emergency management/planning or other related subject. Work Schedule Ability to work anywhere from 40 hours per week to up to 80 depending on project needs May require deployment within 24 hours of notification May be asked to work irregular/extended work hours May work at other locations than assigned TDY May require relocating to emergency sites that require functioning under intense physical and mental stress

Job Description Disclaimer

This position description incorporates the core responsibilities of the job. It recognizes that other related duties not specifically mentioned might also be performed, and that not all responsibilities may be carried out depending on operational needs.

Commitment To Diversity

Witt O'Brien's is always looking for the most qualified and experienced professionals with a passion for public safety, emergency management, homeland security, disaster response, and continuity of operations. We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Equal Opportunity Employer/Veteran/Disabled With you when it counts.

Are you looking for an opportunity to truly make a difference? Do you want to join a collaborative, mission-driven team that protects the planet, strengthens communities, and supports businesses when they need it most? Are you seeking a place where your work contributes directly to an organization known for excellence in environmental services, crisis management, and emergency response? If your answer is “yes,” then you belong at Ambipar. Ambipar is a global leader in environmental and emergency management solutions. In the United States, our diverse portfolio spans emergency consulting and risk mitigation, grants management support, 24/7 emergency response, environmental remediation, industrial services, business continuity, and disaster recovery. Through our Witt O'Brien's consulting business, we help communities build resilience in a rapidly changing world—advising clients on how to mitigate risk, prepare for crises, respond effectively, and recover stronger. Across the country, our emergency response teams manage environmental incidents of all types—from chemical and hazardous waste spills to silo fire suppression and industrial vacuum services. We also delivery specialized training programs that equip emergency responders with the skills they need to act swiftly and safely. As the frequency and complexity of both natural and human-made disasters continue to grow, the need for our expertise has never been greater. We invite you to join an ambitious, forward-thinking team of top professionals who are committed to safeguarding people, communities, and the environment. Together, we can take our organization—and your career to the next level.